Enclosed packaging tray

ABSTRACT

A packaging assembly including a retention sheet formed of a resilient material and attached with foldable portions of a frame formed of a stiff material. The frame includes one or more wings and lateral portions that can be folded to enclose a packaged article between a platform on the frame and the retention sheet for shipping, storage or other uses.

CROSS REFERENCE

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure generally relates to devices, systems, and methods forforming an enclosed packaging tray.

SUMMARY

Forming an enclosed tray using a heat shrink tunnel according to aconventional method requires multiple steps, expensive machinery, andenvironmentally unfriendly heat-shrinkable film. Achieving the correctsettings on the heat shrink tunnel (e.g., conveyer speed, temperature,etc.) requires trial and error leading to wasted materials. Theheat-shrinking also hardens the heat-shrinkable film, resulting inpackages that are brittle and non-recyclable. Accordingly, one aspect ofthe present disclosure is an enclosed tray that can retain the benefitsof a heat-shrink package, without requiring heat-shrinkable film and/orheat shrink tunnel machinery.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a packaging tray assemblyformed of a sheet member or frame and a retention member. The frame canbe rectangular or square. The frame can include first and second wingportions, a platform, and first and second lateral portions. The firstand second wing portions can be formed by first and second fold lines.The first and second fold lines can be parallel to each other andseparate the first and second wing portions from the central portion.The first and second lateral portions can be formed by third and fourthfold lines that separate the first and second lateral portions from thecentral portion. The first and second lateral portions can be between tothe first and second wing portions. The first and second fold lines canbe transverse or perpendicular to the third and fourth fold lines. Thethird and fourth fold lines can cross the first and second fold lines toform first, second, third, and fourth corner portions of the frame.

The retention member can include a first end that is attached with thefirst wing portion and first and second corner portions. The first endof the retention member can be wider than the platform and/or the firstwing portion alone. The retention member can include a second end thatattaches with the third corner, the fourth corner, and the second wingportion. The second end of the retention member can be wider than theplatform and/or the second wing portion alone. A first lateral edge ofthe retention member can extend between the first and second end of theretention member on a first side. A second lateral edge of the retentionmember can extend between the first and second end of the retentionmember on a second side.

The frame can be first folded along the first fold line so that thefirst corner, the first wing portion, and the second corner are foldedunderneath the first lateral portion, the central portion, and thesecond lateral portions, respectively. The third corner, the second wingportion, and the fourth corner can be folded about the second fold lineto be placed under the first lateral portion, the platform, and thesecond lateral portion. Folding on the first and second folds canstretch the retention member to retain any item placed between a centralportion of the retention member and the platform. Next, the first andthird corners and the first lateral portion can be folded upwardly alongthe third fold line to form a first folded wall. The first folded wallcan be vertical (e.g., generally perpendicular with the platform). Thefirst lateral edge of the retention member can be pulled and stretchedupwardly over the first folded wall and outwardly to an exterior side ofthe first folded wall to enclose one end of the frame and the platform.The second lateral portion along with the second and fourth corners canbe folded upwardly along the fourth fold line to form a second foldedwall, opposite the first folded wall. The second folded wall can bevertical (e.g., generally perpendicular with the platform). The secondlateral edge of the retention member can be pulled and stretchedupwardly over the second folded wall and outwardly to an exterior sideof a seconded folded wall. The stretching of the first and secondlateral edges of the resilient member over the respective first andsecond folded walls can retain the folded walls in place (e.g.,vertical) and they can allow the retention member to fully enclose anupper side of the platform to retain any items packaged on the platform.The enclosed tray can protect the packaged items from damage from drops,moisture, dust, etc.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to belimiting. Other aspects, features, and advantages of the systems,devices, and methods and/or other subject matter described in thisapplication will become apparent in the teachings set forth below. Thesummary is provided to introduce a selection of some of the concepts ofthis disclosure. The summary is not intended to identify key oressential features of any subject matter described herein

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a first packaging assembly;

FIG. 2 shows a photo of the packaging assembly;

FIG. 3 shows a photo of the packaging assembly with an article placedbetween a retention member and a platform of a frame of the packagingassembly;

FIG. 4 shows first and second wing portions folded underneath theplatform to tensioned the retention member;

FIG. 5 shows a user inserting fingers underneath the first lateral edgeof the retention member and folding up the first lateral portion to formthe first folded wall;

FIG. 6 shows the first lateral edge of the retention member beingstretched over the first folded wall;

FIG. 7 shows the first folded wall with the first lateral edge of theretention member folded over the first folded wall to an exterior side;

FIG. 8 shows stretching of the second lateral edge of the retentionmember over a second folded wall;

FIG. 9 shows stretching of the second lateral edge of the retentionmember over a second folded wall;

FIG. 10 shows stretching of the second lateral edge of the retentionmember over a second folded wall;

FIG. 11 shows the enclosed tray formed by the packaging assembly;

FIG. 12 shows the enclosed tray inserted within a box for shipment ortransport;

FIG. 13 shows the addition of an adhesive strip on the first folded wallto attach with the first lateral edge of the retention member;

FIG. 14 shows the addition of an adhesive strip on the first folded wallto attach with the first lateral edge of the retention member;

FIG. 15 shows the addition of an adhesive strip on the first folded wallto attach with the first lateral edge of the retention member;

FIG. 16 shows the addition of a tab on the first folded wall to attachwith the first lateral edge of the retention member.

FIG. 17 shows the addition of a tab on the first folded wall to attachwith the first lateral edge of the retention member.

FIG. 18 shows a second packaging assembly including locking tabs;

FIG. 19 shows placing an object within the second packaging;

FIG. 20 shows folding first and second wings underneath a centralplatform of the second packaging;

FIG. 21 shows lifting third and fourth wings to engage the locking tabsof the second packaging;

FIG. 22 shows lifting third and fourth wings to engage the locking tabsof the second packaging;

FIG. 23 shows lifting third and fourth wings to engage the locking tabsof the second packaging;

FIG. 24 shows a third packaging assembly including a retention sheetattached with a frame on three sides and an opening on the fourth side;

FIG. 25 shows folding first and second wings underneath a centralplatform of the third packaging;

FIG. 26 shows closing the opening with the retention sheet placed over afolded side of the third packaging;

FIG. 27 shows a frame member of a fourth packaging assembly includinglocking tabs and locking flaps;

FIG. 28 shows the fourth packaging assembly including a retention sheetattached with the frame on three sides and an opening on the fourthside;

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of a locking tab and locking flap on anunderside of the fourth packaging member.

FIG. 30 shows the fourth packaging assembly with first and second wingportions folded beneath a central panel of the frame;

FIG. 31 shows alignment of the locking tab and the locking flap on theunderside of the fourth packaging assembly;

FIG. 32 shows the locking tab engaged with the locking flap on an upperside of the fourth packaging assembly;

FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of the locking tab engaged with thelocking flap on the underside of the fourth packaging assembly;

FIG. 34 shows a fifth packaging assembly including abiodegradable/compostable retention sheet attached with a frame on threesides and an opening on a fourth side;

FIG. 35 shows a sixth packaging assembly including a retention sheetattached with a frame on four sides with a bridged opening;

FIG. 36 shows the sixth packaging assembly receiving an object onto acentral panel of the frame through the bridged opening.

FIG. 37 shows a jig for use with any of the packaging assembly disclosedherein.

FIG. 38 shows the jig in use with the sixth packaging assembly forreceiving an object onto a central panel of the frame through thebridged opening.

FIG. 39 shows the jig in use with the sixth packaging assembly forreceiving an object onto a central panel of the frame through thebridged opening.

Various examples are depicted in the accompanying drawings forillustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as limitingthe scope of the examples. Various features of different disclosedexamples can be combined to form additional examples, which are part ofthis disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a first packaging assembly 100. The packagingassembly 100 can include a frame 120. The frame 120 can be formed out ofa corrugated cardboard sheet, wood pulp products, plastic or othermaterials. The corrugated cardboard can include a first and second outerpanels and a plurality of corrugations therebetween. The frame 120 ingeneral can be formed as a square or rectangular sheet having first andsecond lateral sides 126, 127 and first and second ends 124, 125. Theframe 120 can include a first fold line 151. The first fold line 151 canbe located on a first side of a platform 123. A second fold line 152 canbe located on a second side of the platform 123. The first and secondfold lines 151, 152 can be parallel. The first and second fold lines151, 152 can extend from between outer lateral sides 126, 127 of theframe 120. The first and second fold lines 151, 152 can extend a widthW1 of a first end of the frame 120 and/or a width W2 of a second end ofthe frame 120.

The first fold line 151 can define a first wing portion 121. The firstwing portion can be pivotably connected with the platform 123 from thefirst fold line 151. A second wing portion 122 can be connected with theplatform 123 by the second fold line 152. The second wing portion 122can be pivotable relative to the platform about the second fold line152.

The frame 120 can include a third fold line 153. The third fold line 153can extend along a third side of the platform 123. The third fold line153 can extend along a length of the frame 120 between first and secondends 124, 125 of the frame 120. The frame 120 can include a fourth foldline 154. The fourth fold line 154 can extend parallel to the third foldline 153. The fourth fold line 154 can extend along the length of theframe 120 between the first and second ends 124, 125 thereof. The thirdand fourth fold lines 153, 154 can be parallel. The third and fourthlines 153, 154 can be anti-parallel, transverse, or perpendicular to thesecond and first fold lines 151, 152. The third fold line 153 can bounda first lateral portion 131. The first lateral portion 131 can beseparated from the platform 123 by the third fold line 153. The firstlateral portion 131 can be pivotable with respect to the platform 123about the third fold line 153. A second lateral portion (or fourth wing)132 can be connected with the platform 123 about the fourth fold line154. The second lateral portion 132 can be pivotable with respect to theplatform 123 about the fold line 154. The first lateral portion 131 canextend along the first lateral side 126 of the frame 120. The secondlateral portion 132 can extend along the second lateral side 127 of theframe 120.

The first fold line 151 and the third fold line 153 can also partiallydefine a first corner portion 141. The first corner portion 141 can belocated between the first wing portion 121 and the first lateral portion131. The first corner portion 141 can be generally aligned with thefirst lateral portion 131 and a first wing portion 121. The first foldline 151 and the fourth fold line 154 can be bound or at least partiallydefine a second corner portion 142. The second corner portion 142 can bealigned with the first wing portion 121 and the second lateral portion132. The second fold line 152 and the third fold line 153 can form athird corner 143. The third corner 143 can be at least partially boundedby the second fold line 152 and the third fold line 153. The thirdcorner 143 can be aligned with the first lateral portion 131 and thesecond wing portion 122. The second fold line 152 and the fourth foldline 154 can at least partially bound to define a fourth corner portion144. The fourth corner portion 144 can be aligned with the secondlateral portion 132 and the second wing portion 122. The corner portions141-144 can be square or rectangular depending on the outer shape of theframe 120 which is generally square or rectangular, but this is notrequired.

The retention member 160 can be formed of a thin resilient film materialsuch as a polymer. An exemplary material for the retention member 160 islow density polyethylene. Low density polyethylene is highly recyclableand can be heat sealed directly to an outer face of a corrugatedcardboard member as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/222,410.The retention member 160 can be generally formed as a square orrectangular member that generally corresponds to the size and shape ofthe frame 120. The retention member 160 can overlay the frame 120including the central panel platform 123, first and second wing portions121, 122, the first and second lateral portions 131, 132, and the first,second, third, and fourth corner portions 141, 142, 143, 144.

The retention member 160 can include a first end 161 and a second 162.The first end 161 can be generally aligned with the first end 124 of theframe 120. The first end 161 can be attached with the frame 120 on thecorner 141, the first wing portion 121, and/or the second corner 142.The first end 161 can include an attachment portion 163. The attachmentportion 163 can extend across the first corner 141, the first wingportion 121, and/or the second corner 142. The first end 161 can have awidth W3. The width W3 can be at least as great as a width of the firstwing portion 121. Optionally the width W3 can be equal to the width W1of the frame 120 on the first end 124. The first end 161 of theretention member 160 can extend from the first lateral side 126 to asecond lateral side 127 of the frame 120. Optionally, the first end 161can be aligned with the first end 124 of the frame 120. The first end161 can also be offset from the first end 124. The second end 162 can bealigned with the second end 125 of the frame 120 or offset therefrom.The second end 162 can extend across the third corner portion 143, thesecond wing portion 122, and/or the fourth corner 144. The second end162 can include an attachment portion 164. The attachment portion canextend on the third corner portion 143, the second wing portion 122,and/or the fourth corner portion 144. The second end 162 can have awidth W4. The width W4 can be greater than a width of the second wingportion 122. The width W4 can be as great as the width W2 of the secondend 125 frame 120. The attachment portions 163, 164 can includeadhesives, staples, heat seals, or any other attachment mechanismbetween a resilient member and corrugated cardboard or other types ofmaterials.

A central portion 165 of the retention member 160 can overlay theplatform 123 and/or other portions of the frame 120. The central portion165 is not attached with the frame 120 or otherwise overlays the frame120 such that an article can be placed between the platform 123 and thecentral portion 165 of the retention member 160.

As shown in FIG. 3, an article for a transport can be placed between theretention member 160 and the frame 120. Specifically, the article can beplaced between the central portion 165 of the retention member 160 andthe platform 123 of the frame 120. To place the article, it may benecessary to fold the first wing portion 122 and the second wing portion122 upwardly along the first and second fold lines 151, 152 as shown inFIG. 3 to provide slack in the retention member 160. Once the article isinstalled, the first wing portion 121 can be folded downwardly along thefirst fold line 151 and the second wing portion 122 can be foldeddownwardly along the second fold line 152. The first corner and thesecond corner 141, 142 can be folded along with the first wing portion121. The third corner 143 and the fourth corner 144 can be folded alongwith the second wing portion 122.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first wing portion 121 can be folded against anunderside of the platform 123. Likewise, the first corner 141 can befolded against the underside of the first lateral portion 131 and thesecond corner portion 142 can be folded against an underside of thesecond lateral portion 132. Similarly the second wing portion 122 can befolded against the underside of the platform 123, the third corner 143can be folded against an underside of the first lateral portion 131, andthe fourth corner 144 can be folded against an underside of the secondlateral portion 132.

As shown in FIGS. 5-7 the first corner 141 and the third corner 143 canbe folded upwardly along the third fold line 153 to form a first foldedwall that bounds one edge of the platform. The first folded wall can bevertical and/or perpendicular relative to the platform 123. The firstlateral edge 171 of the retention member 160 can be stretched upwardlyover the first folded wall to an exterior side thereof. The attachmentportions 163, 164 can be positioned on the exterior side of the firstfolded wall. To facilitate stretching of the retention member 160, theretention member 160 can include slack portions 166, 167. The slackportions 166, 167 can be aligned along the first lateral edge 171 and/orthe second lateral edge 172. The slack portions 166, 167 can overlap therespective corners 141, 143 and 142, 144.

As shown in FIGS. 8-10, the second lateral portion 132 and the secondcorner 142 and the fourth corner 144 can be folded upwardly along thefourth fold line 154 to form a second folded wall on the platform 123.The second folded wall can be vertical and/or perpendicular relative tothe platform 123. The second folded wall can be opposite the firstfolded wall. The second lateral edge 172 of the retention member 160 canbe stretched upwardly and over the second folded wall. The attachmentportions 163, 164 can be positioned on the exterior side of the secondfolded wall.

Stretching the first and second lateral sides 171, 172 over therespective folded walls is enabled by including excess material (e.g.,slack portions 166, 167) in the retention member 160. The first andsecond ends 161, 162 of the retention member 160 extend laterally pastthe wing portions 121, 122. The first and second ends 161, 162 canextend all the way past the wing portions 121, 122 onto the cornerportions and/or to the lateral edges 126, 127. This excess material canbe stretched upwardly over the folded walls as shown in the figures anddescribed above. A user can insert their fingers underneath the lateraledges 171, 172 of the retention member 160, stretch the edges upwardlyand outwardly onto an exterior side of the folded wall. This stretchingmay include stretching of the material of the retention member 160and/or folding of the material over the folded walls, depending on thematerial type. The stretching and/or folding of the retention member 160can further tension the retention member 160 to retain articles on theplatform between the retention member 160 and the platform 123. Thestretching and folding of the lateral edges 171, 172 over the foldedwalls also retains the folded wall in an upright configuration. In theupright configuration the folded wall can be generally perpendicularwith the central panel although this is not strictly required. Thestretching and placing of the first lateral edges 171, 172 also canallow the retention member 160 to act as a barrier to liquids, dust, andother items that may come into contact with the articles stored withinthe packaging 100.

As shown in FIG. 11 the completed, enclosed assembly can be stored fortransport such as within a package or box as shown in FIG. 12.

FIGS. 13-15 show an adhesive strip 231 on the first folded wall. Theadhesive strip 231 can be attached with the first lateral portion 131.The adhesive strip 231 can be attached on an under side of the firstlateral portion 131 such that the adhesive strip 231 is positioned on anoutward exterior side of the first folded wall. The adhesive strip 231can extend from the first corner 141 to the third corner 143. Theadhesive strip 231 can extend the length of the first lateral portion131. Optionally, the first corner portion 141 and the third cornerportion 143 can be adhered in place in the first folded wall by theadhesive strip 231. The adhesive strip 231 can include a removable paper233. After or during the forming of the enclosed tray, the removablepaper can be removed and the lateral edge 171 can be attached with firstfolded wall (e.g., on the first lateral portion 131) by contact with theadhesive strip. The second folded wall can similarly include an adhesivestrip (not shown). The adhesive strip 231 can ensure the positioning ofthe lateral edge 171 over the folded wall and can allow the retentionmember 160 to act as a barrier to liquids, dust, and other items thatmay come into contact with the articles stored within the packaging 100.In other implementations, the lateral edge 171 can be attached with thefirst folded wall by staples, applied adhesive (e.g., liquid), heatsealing, or other mechanical attachment means.

FIGS. 16-17 show at least one tab 232 on the first folded wall. The tab232 can be a cutout portion of the first lateral portion 131. The tab232 can include an upper end attached with the first lateral portion anda cutout end. The cutout end can be wedge shaped. After or during theforming of the enclosed tray, the cutout end can be lifted out of thefirst lateral portion 131 and the lateral edge 171 can be placed underthe cutout end. The cutout end can then be pressed back into the firstlateral portion 131, as shown in FIG. 17 to secure the position of thefirst lateral edge 171. The second folded wall can similarly include atab (not shown). The tab 232 can ensure the positioning of the lateraledge 171 over the folded wall and can allow the retention member 160 toact as a barrier to liquids, dust, and other items that may come intocontact with the articles stored within the packaging 100.

FIGS. 18-23 illustrates a second packaging assembly 300. The packagingassembly 300 can include a frame 320. The frame 320 can be formed out ofa corrugated cardboard sheet, wood pulp products, plastic or othermaterials. The corrugated cardboard can include a first and second outerpanels and a plurality of corrugations therebetween.

The frame 320 in general can be formed as a square or rectangular sheethaving first and second lateral sides 326, 327 and first and second ends324, 325. The frame 320 can include a first fold line 351. The firstfold line 351 can be located on a first side of a platform 323. A secondfold line 352 can be located on a second side of the platform 323. Thefirst and second fold lines 351, 352 can be parallel. The first andsecond fold lines 351, 352 can extend between outer lateral sides 326,327 of the frame 320. The first and second fold lines 351, 352 canextend a width W1 of a first end of the frame 320 and/or a width W2 of asecond end of the frame 320.

The first fold line 351 can include a first cutout tab 381. The tab 381can be separated from a portion of the platform 323. The tab 381 canextend laterally inwardly from the first fold line 351 towards a centerof the platform 323. The second fold line 352 can include a secondcutout tab 382. The tab 382 can be separated from a portion of theplatform 323. The tab 382 can extend laterally inwardly from the secondfold line 352 towards a center of the platform 323.

The first fold line 351 can define a first wing portion 321. The firstwing portion can be pivotably connected with the platform 323 from thefirst fold line 351. The tab 381 can be a portion of the wing 321. Asecond wing portion 322 can be connected with the platform 323 by thesecond fold line 352. The second wing portion 322 can be pivotablerelative to the platform about the second fold line 352. The tab 382 canbe a portion of the wing 322.

The frame 320 can include a third fold line 353. The third fold line 353can extend along a third side of the platform 323. The third fold line353 can extend along a length of the frame 320 between first and secondends 324, 325 of the frame 320. The frame 320 can include a fourth foldline 354. The fourth fold line 354 can extend parallel to the third foldline 353. The fourth fold line 354 can extend along the length of theframe 320 between the first and second ends 324, 325 thereof. The thirdand fourth fold lines 353, 354 can be parallel. The third and fourthlines 353, 354 can be anti-parallel, transverse, or perpendicular to thesecond and first fold lines 351, 352. The third fold line 353 can bounda first lateral portion (or third wing) 331. The first lateral portion331 can be separated from the platform 323 by the third fold line 353.The first lateral portion 331 can be pivotable with respect to theplatform 323 about the third fold line 353. A second lateral portion (orfourth wing) 332 can be connected with the platform 323 about the fourthfold line 354. The second lateral portion 332 can be pivotable withrespect to the platform 323 about the fold line 354. The first lateralportion 331 can extend along the first lateral side 326 of the frame320. The second lateral portion 332 can extend along the second lateralside 327 of the frame 320.

The first fold line 351 and the third fold line 353 can also partiallydefine a first corner portion 341. The first corner portion 341 can belocated between the first wing portion 321 and the first lateral portion331. The first corner portion 341 can be generally aligned with thefirst lateral portion 331 and a first wing portion 321. The first foldline 351 and the fourth fold line 354 can be bound or at least partiallydefine a second corner portion 342. The second corner portion 342 can bealigned with the first wing portion 321 and the second lateral portion332. The second fold line 352 and the third fold line 353 can form athird corner 343. The third corner 343 can be at least partially boundedby the second fold line 352 and the third fold line 353. The thirdcorner 343 can be aligned with the first lateral portion 331 and thesecond wing portion 322. The second fold line 352 and the fourth foldline 354 can at least partially bound to define a fourth corner portion344. The fourth corner portion 344 can be aligned with the secondlateral portion 332 and the second wing portion 322. The corner portions341-144 can be square or rectangular depending on the outer shape of theframe 320 which is generally square or rectangular, but this is notrequired.

The retention member 360 can be formed of a thin resilient film materialsuch as a polymer. An exemplary material for the retention member 360 islow density polyethylene. Low density polyethylene is highly recyclableand can be heat sealed directly to an outer face of a corrugatedcardboard member as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 34/222,410.The retention member 360 can be generally formed as a square orrectangular member that generally corresponds to the size and shape ofthe frame 320. The retention member 360 can overlay the frame 320including the central panel platform 323, first and second wing portions321, 322, the first and second lateral portions 331, 332, and the first,second, third, and fourth corner portions 341, 342, 343, 344.

The retention member 360 can include a first end 361 and a second end362. The first end 361 can be generally aligned with the first end 324of the frame 320. The first end 361 can be attached with the frame 320on the corner 341, the first wing portion 321, and/or the second corner342. The first end 361 can include an attachment portion 363. Theattachment portion 363 can extend across the first corner 341, the firstwing portion 321, and/or the second corner 342. The first end 361 canhave a width W3. The width W3 can be at least as great as a width of thefirst wing portion 321. Optionally the width W3 can be equal to thewidth W1 of the frame 320 on the first end 324. The first end 361 of theretention member 360 can extend from the first lateral side 326 to asecond lateral side 327 of the frame 320. Optionally, the first end 361can be aligned with the first end 324 of the frame 320. The first end361 can also be offset from the first end 324.

The second end 362 can be aligned with the second end 325 of the frame320 or offset therefrom. The second end 362 can extend across the thirdcorner portion 343, the second wing portion 322, and/or the fourthcorner 344. The second end 362 can include an attachment portion 364.The attachment portion 364 can extend on the third corner portion 343,the second wing portion 322, and/or the fourth corner portion 344. Thesecond end 362 can have a width W4. The width W4 can be greater than awidth of the second wing portion 322. The width W4 can be as great asthe width W2 of the second end 325 frame 320. The attachment portions363, 364 can include adhesives, staples, pressure sensitive strips, heatseals, pockets, or any other attachment mechanism between a resilientmember and corrugated cardboard or other types of materials.

The first wing portion 321 can include a seal fold line 397. The sealfold line 397 can extend from the lateral side 327 to the lateral side326. The seal fold line 397 can be located between the attachmentportion 363 and the fold line 351. In use, the attachment portion 363and that portion of the first wing portion 321 can be folded along theseal fold line 397. This folding can enhance the connection of the firstend 361 of the sheet 360 with the first wing portion 321. The secondwing portion 322 can include a seal fold line 396. The seal fold line396 can extend from the lateral side 327 to the lateral side 326. Theseal fold line 396 can be located between the attachment portion 364 andthe fold line 352. In use, the attachment portion 364 and that portionof the second wing portion 322 can be folded along the seal fold line396. This folding can enhance the connection of the second end 362 ofthe sheet 360 with the second wing portion 322. Folding along the sealfold line 397 and/or 396 can be executed before folding along the foldlines 353, 354 as described further below. This can lock the foldedportions in place along the seal fold lines 396, 397.

A central portion 365 of the retention member 360 can overlay theplatform 323 and/or other portions of the frame 320. The central portion365 is not attached with the frame 320 or otherwise overlays the frame320 such that an article can be placed between the platform 323 and thecentral portion 365 of the retention member 360. Lateral edges 371, 372can extend between the first and second ends 361, 362. The lateral edges371, 372 can be unattached with the lateral portion 331, 332.Optionally, one or both of the lateral portions can include attachmentmechanisms for attaching one or both of the lateral edge 371, 372 withthe respective lateral portions 331, 332. The attachment mechanism mayinclude an adhesive strip 398, 399 covered by a removable protectivesheet. The attachment mechanism may include a tab, like the tab 232.Alternatively, the attachment mechanism may include a staple or othermechanical fastener.

An article for a transport can be placed between the retention member360 and the frame 320. Specifically, the article can be placed betweenthe central portion 365 of the retention member 360 and the platform 323of the frame 320. To place the article, it may be necessary to fold thefirst wing portion 322 and the second wing portion 322 upwardly alongthe first and second fold lines 351, 352 as shown in FIG. 19 to provideslack in the retention member 360. The article can be passed througheither the lateral edge 371 or the lateral edge 372. Once the article isinstalled, the attachment mechanism can be engaged (e.g., removal of thepaper from the adhesive strip(s) 398, 399) to secure the lateral edgesto the respective lateral portions 331, 332. The first lateral portion331 can be folded downwardly along the third fold line 353 and thesecond lateral portion 332 can be folded downwardly along the fourthfold line 354. The first corner and the third corner 341, 343 can befolded along with the first lateral portion 331. The second corner 342and the fourth corner 344 can be folded along with the second lateralportion 332. The folding of the first and second lateral portions 331,332 with the attachment portions 363, 364 extended on the respectivecorner portions can stretch and/or tension the retention member 360.This is in contrast to a conventional suspension packaging assembly thatwould generally apply tension using the wing portions attached with theends of the retention sheet.

As shown in FIG. 20, the first lateral portion 331 can be folded againstan underside of the platform 323. Likewise, the first corner 341 can befolded against the underside of the first wing portion 321 and the thirdcorner portion 343 can be folded against an underside of the second wingportion 322. Folding the first lateral portion 331 can bend and closethe first lateral edge 371 and thereby enclose one side of the platform323. Similarly the second lateral portion 332 can be folded against theunderside of the platform 323, the second corner 342 can be foldedagainst an underside of the first wing portion 321, and the fourthcorner 344 can be folded against an underside of the second wing portion322. Folding the second lateral portion 332 can bend and close thesecond lateral edge 372 and thereby enclose one side of the platform323.

As shown in FIGS. 21-22 the first corner 341 and the second corner 342can be folded upwardly along the first fold line 351 to form a firstfolded wall that bounds one edge of the platform 323. The first foldedwall can be vertical and/or perpendicular relative to the platform 323.The first folded wall can be held in place by the tab 381. The tab 381can fold downwardly under the platform 323, as shown in FIG. 23. The tab381 can fold past the first and second lateral portion 331, 332 foldedunderneath the platform 323. The tab 381 can engage with edges 326, 327along the first and second lateral portions 331, 332 to hold the firstfolded wall in place.

The third corner 343 and the fourth corner 344 can be folded upwardlyalong the second fold line 352 to form a second folded wall that boundsone edge of the platform 323. The second folded wall can be verticaland/or perpendicular relative to the platform 323. The second foldedwall can be held in place by the tab 382. The tab 382 can folddownwardly under the platform 323, as shown in FIG. 23. The tab 382 canfold past the first and second lateral portion 331, 332 foldedunderneath the platform 323 (e.g., opposite tab 381). The tab 382 canengage with edges 326, 327 along the first and second lateral portions331, 332 to hold the second folded wall in place.

By folding the first and second lateral portions first along the thirdand fourth fold lines 353, 354 to close open ends of the retentionsheet, and folding the first and second fold wings (with the connectedfirst and second ends 361, 362) along the first and second fold lines,the platform 323 can be enclosed on all four sides to contain an itemfor shipping. Advantageously, this can be performed with fewer intricatesteps than certain other packaging solutions.

As shown in FIG. 22 the completed, enclosed assembly 300 can be storedfor transport such as within a package or box as shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 24-26 illustrates a third packaging assembly 400. The packagingassembly 400 can include a frame 420. The frame 420 can be formed out ofa corrugated cardboard sheet, wood pulp products, plastic or othermaterials. The frame 420 can be formed as a square or rectangular sheethaving first and second lateral sides 426, 427 and first and second ends424, 425. The frame 420 can include a first fold line 451. The firstfold line 451 can be located on a first side of a platform 423. A secondfold line 452 can be located on a second side of the platform 423. Thefirst and second fold lines 451, 452 can be parallel. The first andsecond fold lines 451, 452 can extend from between outer lateral sides426, 427 of the frame 420. The first and second fold lines 451, 452 canextend a width W1 of the first end of the frame 420 and/or a width ofthe second end of the frame 420. The first fold line 451 can define afirst wing portion 421. The first wing portion can be pivotablyconnected with the platform 423 from the first fold line 451. A secondwing portion 422 can be connected with the platform 423 by the secondfold line 452. The second wing portion 422 can be pivotable relative tothe platform about the second fold line 452.

The frame 420 can include a third fold line 453. The third fold line 453can extend along a third side of the platform 423. The third fold line453 can extend along a length of the frame 420 between first and secondends 424, 425 of the frame 420. The frame 420 can include a fourth foldline 454. The fourth fold line 454 can extend parallel to the third foldline 453. The fourth fold line 454 can extend along the length of theframe 420 between the first and second ends 424, 425 thereof. The thirdand fourth fold lines 453, 454 can be parallel. The third and fourthlines 453, 454 can be anti-parallel, transverse, or perpendicular to thesecond and first fold lines 451, 452. The third fold line 453 can bounda first lateral portion (or third wing) 431. The first lateral portion431 can be separated from the platform 423 by the third fold line 453.The first lateral portion 431 can be pivotable with respect to theplatform 423 about the third fold line 453. A second lateral portion (orfourth wing) 432 can be connected with the platform 423 about the fourthfold line 454. The second lateral portion 432 can be pivotable withrespect to the platform 423 about the fold line 454. The first lateralportion 431 can extend along the first lateral side 426 of the frame420. The second lateral portion 432 can extend along the second lateralside 427 of the frame 420.

The first fold line 451 and the third fold line 453 can also partiallydefine a first corner portion 441. The first corner portion 441 can belocated between the first wing portion 421 and the first lateral portion431. The first corner portion 441 can be generally aligned with thefirst lateral portion 431 and a first wing portion 421. The first foldline 451 and the fourth fold line 454 can be bound or at least partiallydefine a second corner portion 442. The second corner portion 442 can bealigned with the first wing portion 421 and the second lateral portion432. The second fold line 452 and the third fold line 453 can form athird corner 443. The third corner 443 can be at least partially boundedby the second fold line 452 and the third fold line 453. The thirdcorner 443 can be aligned with the first lateral portion 431 and thesecond wing portion 422. The second fold line 452 and the fourth foldline 454 can at least partially bound to define a fourth corner portion444. The fourth corner portion 444 can be aligned with the secondlateral portion 432 and the second wing portion 422. The corner portions441-144 can be square or rectangular depending on the outer shape of theframe 420 which is generally square or rectangular, but this is notrequired.

The retention member 460 can be formed of a thin resilient film materialsuch as a polymer. An exemplary material for the retention member 460 islow density polyethylene. Low density polyethylene is highly recyclableand can be heat sealed directly to an outer face of a corrugatedcardboard member as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 44/222,410.The retention member 460 can be generally formed as a square orrectangular member that generally corresponds to the size and shape ofthe frame 420. The retention member 460 can overlay the frame 420including the central panel platform 423, first and/or second wingportions 421, 422, the first and/or second lateral portions 431, 432,and/or the first, second, third, and/or fourth corner portions 441, 442,443, 444.

The retention member 460 can include a first end 461 and a second end462. The first end 461 can be generally aligned with the first wing 421of the frame 420. The first end 461 can be attached with the frame 420on the corner 441, the first wing portion 421, and/or the second corner442. The first end 461 can include an attachment portion 471. Theattachment portion 471 can extend across the first corner 441, the firstwing portion 421, and/or the second corner 442. The first end 461 canhave a width. The width can be at least as great as a width of the firstwing portion 421. Optionally the width can be equal to the width of theframe 420 on the first end 424. Alternatively, the attachment portion471 can be located only on the first wing 421. In another alternative,the attachment portion 471 can comprise one or more discrete attachmentpoints on the first wing 421, the first corner 441 or the second corner442.

The first end 461 of the retention member 460 can extend from the firstlateral side 426 to the second lateral side 427 of the frame 420.Optionally, the first end 461 can be aligned with the first end 424 ofthe frame 420. The first end 461 can also be offset from the first end424. The second end 462 can be aligned with the second end 425 of theframe 420 or offset therefrom. The second end 462 can extend across thethird corner portion 443, the second wing portion 422, and/or the fourthcorner 444. The second end 462 can include an attachment portion 472.The attachment portion 472 can extend on the third corner portion 443,the second wing portion 422, and/or the fourth corner portion 444. Thesecond end 462 can have a width. The width can be greater than a widthof the second wing portion 422. The width can be as great as the widthof the second end 425 frame 420. Alternatively, the attachment portion472 can be located only on the second wing 422. In another alternative,the attachment portion 472 can comprise one or more discrete attachmentpoints on the second wing 422, the third corner 443 or the fourth corner444.

A third end 463 of the retention member 460 can extend from the firstend 424 to the second 425 of the frame 420. The third end 463 can alsobe offset or aligned with the third side 426. The third end 463 canextend across the third corner portion 443, the first lateral portion431, and/or the first corner 441. The third end 463 can include anattachment portion 473. The attachment portion 473 can extend on thethird corner portion 443, the first lateral portion 431, and/or thefirst corner portion 441. The third end 463 can have a width. The widthcan be greater than a width of the second wing portion 422.Alternatively, the attachment portion 473 can be located only on thefirst lateral portion 431. In another alternative, the attachmentportion 473 can comprise one or more discrete attachment points on thefirst lateral portion 431, the third corner 443 or the first corner 441.

The attachment portions 471-473 can include adhesives, staples, pressuresensitive strips, heat seals, or any other attachment mechanism betweena resilient member and corrugated cardboard or other types of materials.Together the attachment portions 471-473 can enclose three sides of theframe 420 extending across the first wing portion 421, the first lateralportion 431 and the second wing portion 422 (and/or the corner portions441-442). A central portion of the retention member 460 can overlay theplatform 423 and/or other portions of the frame 420. The central portionis not attached with the frame 420 or otherwise overlays the frame 420such that an article can be placed between the platform 423 and thecentral portion of the retention member 460.

A fourth side 464 of the retention sheet 460 can be aligned along thesecond lateral side 427. The fourth side 464 can be unattached with theframe 120. Alternatively, the fourth side 464 can include at least aportion that is unattached as it aligns with the second lateral portion432.

The unattached fourth side 464 can create an opening beneath the centralportion of the retention sheet 460 to allow placement of an article onthe central platform 423 (as illustrated in FIGS. 24-26. To place thearticle, it may be necessary to fold the first wing portion 422 and thesecond wing portion 422 upwardly along the first and second fold lines451, 452 to provide slack in the retention member 460. Once the articleis installed, the first wing portion 421 can be folded downwardly alongthe first fold line 451 and the second wing portion 422 can be foldeddownwardly along the second fold line 452. The first corner and thesecond corner 441, 442 can be folded along with the first wing portion421. The third corner 443 and the fourth corner 444 can be folded alongwith the second wing portion 422.

The first wing portion 421 can be folded against an underside of theplatform 423. Likewise, the first corner 441 can be folded against theunderside of the first lateral portion 431 and the second corner portion442 can be folded against an underside of the second lateral portion432. Similarly the second wing portion 422 can be folded against theunderside of the platform 423, the third corner 443 can be foldedagainst an underside of the first lateral portion 431, and the fourthcorner 444 can be folded against an underside of the second lateralportion 432.

The second lateral portion 432 and the second corner 442 and the fourthcorner 444 can be folded upwardly along the fourth fold line 454 to forma first folded wall on the platform 423. The first folded wall can bevertical and/or perpendicular relative to the platform 423. The secondfolded wall can be opposite the first lateral portion 431. The edge 464of the retention member 460 can be stretched upwardly and over the firstfolded wall, as shown in FIG. 26 (e.g., over the end with the secondcorner 442 and the end with the fourth corner 444). Stretching the side464 over the first folded wall is enabled by including excess materialin the retention member 460. The first and second ends 461, 462 of theretention member 460 extend laterally past the wing portions 421, 422.The first and second ends 461, 462 can extend all the way past the wingportions 421, 422 onto the corner portions and/or to the lateral edges426, 427. This excess material can be stretched upwardly over the foldedwalls as shown in the figures and described above. A user can inserttheir fingers underneath the edge 464 of the retention member 460,stretch the edge upwardly and outwardly onto an exterior side of thefirst folded wall. This stretching may include stretching of thematerial of the retention member 460 and/or folding of the material overthe folded walls, depending on the material type. The stretching and/orfolding of the retention member 460 can further tension the retentionmember 460 to retain articles on the platform between the retentionmember 460 and the platform 423. The stretching and folding of the edge464 over the folded walls also retains the folded wall in an uprightconfiguration. In the upright configuration the folded wall can begenerally perpendicular with the central panel although this is notstrictly required. The stretching and placing of the sheet 460 also canallow the retention member 460 to act as a barrier to liquids, dust, andother items that may come into contact with the articles stored withinthe packaging 400. The attachment portion 472 can enclose the side ofthe frame opposite the first folded wall.

In certain implementations, an adhesive strip can be attached with thesecond lateral portion 432 or elsewhere on the first folded wall. Theadhesive strip can be positioned on an outward exterior side of thefirst folded wall. The adhesive strip can extend from the second corner442 to the fourth corner 444. The adhesive strip can include a removablepaper. After or during the forming of the enclosed tray, the removablepaper can be removed and the lateral edge 464 can be attached with firstfolded wall (e.g., on the second lateral portion 432) by contact withthe adhesive strip. In other implementations, the fourth edge 464 can beattached with the first folded wall by staples, applied adhesive (e.g.,liquid), heat sealing, or other mechanical attachment means.

In another implementation, at least one tab can be included on the firstfolded wall. The tab can be a cutout portion of the second lateralportion 432. The tab can include an upper end attached with the secondlateral portion 432 and a cutout end. The cutout end can be wedgeshaped. After or during the forming of the enclosed tray, the cutout endcan be lifted out of the second lateral portion 432 and the fourth edge464 can be placed under the cutout end. The cutout end can then bepressed back into the second lateral portion 432, as shown in FIG. 17 tosecure the position of the edge 464.

FIG. 27-33 illustrates a fourth packaging assembly 500. The packagingassembly 500 can include a frame 520. The frame 520 can be formed out ofa corrugated cardboard sheet, wood pulp products, plastic or othermaterials. The frame 520 can be formed as a square or rectangular sheethaving first and second lateral sides 526, 527 and first and second ends524, 525. The frame 520 can include a first fold line 551. The firstfold line 551 can be located on a first side of a platform 523. A secondfold line 552 can be located on a second side of the platform 523. Thefirst and second fold lines 551, 552 can be parallel. The first andsecond fold lines 551, 552 can extend from between outer lateral sides526, 527 of the frame 520. The first and second fold lines 551, 552 canextend a width of the first end of the frame 520 and/or a width of thesecond end of the frame 520. The first fold line 551 can define a firstwing portion 521. The first wing portion 521 can be pivotably connectedwith the platform 523 from the first fold line 551. A second wingportion 522 can be connected with the platform 523 by the second foldline 552. The second wing portion 522 can be pivotable relative to theplatform about the second fold line 552.

The frame 520 can include a third fold line 553. The third fold line 553can extend along a third side of the platform 523. The third fold line553 can extend along a length of the frame 520 between first and secondends 524, 525 of the frame 520. The frame 520 can include a fourth foldline 554. The fourth fold line 554 can extend parallel to the third foldline 553. The fourth fold line 554 can extend along the length of theframe 520 between the first and second ends 524, 525 thereof. The thirdand fourth fold lines 553, 554 can be parallel. The third and fourthlines 553, 554 can be anti-parallel, transverse, or perpendicular to thesecond and first fold lines 551, 552. The third fold line 553 can bounda first lateral portion (or third wing) 531. The first lateral portion531 can be separated from the platform 523 by the third fold line 553.The first lateral portion 531 can be pivotable with respect to theplatform 523 about the third fold line 553. A second lateral portion (orfourth wing) 532 can be connected with the platform 523 about the fourthfold line 554. The second lateral portion 532 can be pivotable withrespect to the platform 523 about the fold line 554. The first lateralportion 531 can extend along the first lateral side 526 of the frame520. The second lateral portion 532 can extend along the second lateralside 527 of the frame 520.

The first fold line 551 and the third fold line 553 can also partiallydefine a first corner portion 541. The first corner portion 541 can belocated between the first wing portion 521 and the first lateral portion531. The first corner portion 541 can be generally aligned with thefirst lateral portion 531 and a first wing portion 521. The first foldline 551 and the fourth fold line 554 can be bound or at least partiallydefine a second corner portion 542. The second corner portion 542 can bealigned with the first wing portion 521 and the second lateral portion532. The second fold line 552 and the third fold line 553 can form athird corner 543. The third corner 543 can be at least partially boundedby the second fold line 552 and the third fold line 553. The thirdcorner 543 can be aligned with the first lateral portion 531 and thesecond wing portion 522. The second fold line 552 and the fourth foldline 554 can at least partially bound to define a fourth corner portion544. The fourth corner portion 544 can be aligned with the secondlateral portion 532 and the second wing portion 522. The corner portions541-544 can be square or rectangular depending on the outer shape of theframe 520 which is generally square or rectangular, but this is notrequired.

The retention member 560 can be formed of a thin resilient film materialsuch as a polymer. An exemplary material for the retention member 560 islow density polyethylene. Low density polyethylene is highly recyclableand can be heat sealed directly to an outer face of a corrugatedcardboard member as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 54/222,410.Alternatively, the retention member 560 can be attached using mechanicalmeans such as adhesive, pressure sensitive strips, staples, pockets, orthe like. The retention member 560 can be generally formed as a squareor rectangular member that generally corresponds to the size and shapeof the frame 520. The retention member 560 can overlay the frame 520including the central panel platform 523, first and/or second wingportions 521, 522, the first and/or second lateral portions 531, 532,and/or the first, second, third, and/or fourth corner portions 541, 542,543, 544.

The retention member 560 can include a first end 561 and a second end562. The first end 561 can be generally aligned with the first wing 521of the frame 520. The first end 561 can be attached with the frame 520on the corner 541, the first wing portion 521, and/or the second corner542. The first end 561 can include an attachment portion 571. Theattachment portion 571 can extend across the first corner 541, the firstwing portion 521, and/or the second corner 542. The first end 561 canhave a width. The width can be at least as great as a width of the firstwing portion 521. Optionally the width can be equal to the width of theframe 520 on the first end 524. Alternatively, the attachment portion571 can be located only on the first wing 521. In another alternative,the attachment portion 571 can comprise one or more discrete attachmentpoints on the first wing 521, the first corner 541 or the second corner542.

The first end 561 of the retention member 560 can extend from the firstlateral side 526 to the second lateral side 527 of the frame 520.Optionally, the first end 561 can be aligned with the first end 524 ofthe frame 520. The first end 561 can also be offset from the first end524. The second end 562 can be aligned with the second end 525 of theframe 520 or offset therefrom. The second end 562 can extend across thethird corner portion 543, the second wing portion 522, and/or the fourthcorner 544. The second end 562 can include an attachment portion 572.The attachment portion 572 can extend on the third corner portion 543,the second wing portion 522, and/or the fourth corner portion 544. Thesecond end 562 can have a width. The width can be greater than a widthof the second wing portion 522. The width can be as great as the widthof the second end 525 frame 520. Alternatively, the attachment portion572 can be located only on the second wing 522. In another alternative,the attachment portion 572 can comprise one or more discrete attachmentpoints on the second wing 522, the third corner 543 or the fourth corner544.

A third end 563 of the retention member 560 can extend from the firstend 524 to the second 525 of the frame 520. The third end 563 can alsobe offset or aligned with the third side 526. The third end 563 canextend across the third corner portion 543, the first lateral portion531, and/or the first corner 541. The third end 563 can include anattachment portion 573. The attachment portion 573 can extend on thethird corner portion 543, the first lateral portion 531, and/or thefirst corner portion 541. The third end 563 can have a width. The widthcan be greater than a width of the second wing portion 522.Alternatively, the attachment portion 573 can be located only on thefirst lateral portion 531. In another alternative, the attachmentportion 573 can comprise one or more discrete attachment points on thefirst lateral portion 531, the third corner 543 or the first corner 541.

The attachment portions 571-573 can include adhesives, staples, heatseals, or any other attachment mechanism between a resilient member andcorrugated cardboard or other types of materials. Together theattachment portions 571-573 can enclose three sides of the frame 520extending across the first wing portion 521, the first lateral portion531 and the second wing portion 522 (and/or the corner portions541-442). A central portion of the retention member 560 can overlay theplatform 523 and/or other portions of the frame 520. The central portionis not attached with the frame 520 or otherwise overlays the frame 520such that an article can be placed between the platform 523 and thecentral portion of the retention member 560.

A fourth side 564 of the retention sheet 560 can be aligned along thesecond lateral side 527. The fourth side 564 can be unattached with theframe 120. Alternatively, the fourth side 564 can include at least aportion that is unattached over the second lateral portion 532.

The unattached fourth side 564 can create an opening beneath the centralportion of the retention sheet 560 to allow placement of an article onthe central platform 523. To place the article, it may be necessary tofold the first wing portion 522 and the second wing portion 522 upwardlyalong the first and second fold lines 551, 552 to provide slack in theretention member 560.

The frame 520 can include a plurality of locking tabs configured toengage with locking flaps in the manner described below. The frame 520can include locking tabs 581, 582, 583, 584. The locking tabs can bealigned along the first and second fold lines 551, 552. The firstlocking tab 581 can be formed by a cutout portion 581 a from the centralplatform 523. The first locking tab 581 can be formed integrally withthe first wing 521. The first locking tab 581 can be rectangular inshape. A base of the locking tab 581 can be aligned with the first foldline 551. Rotation of the first wing 521 about the fold line 551 canraise the locking tab 581 relative to the central platform 523 and/orout of the cutout portion 581 a. The angle of the locking tab 581relative to the central platform can be determined by the position ofthe first wing 521. The first tab 581 can be adjacent to the third foldline 553. The second tab 582 can be adjacent to the fourth fold line 554and formed by a cutout region 582 a and otherwise have the samestructure as the first locking tab 581. The third locking tab 583 can belocated along the second fold line 552 and be a part of the second wingportion 522 formed from a cutout portion 583 a. The third locking tab583 can otherwise have the same structure as the first locking tab 581.The fourth locking tab 584 can be located along the second fold line 552and be a part of the second wing portion 522 formed from a cutoutportion 584 a. The fourth locking tab 584 can otherwise have the samestructure as the second locking tab 582.

The frame 520 can include locking flaps 591, 592, 593, 594. The lockingflaps can be aligned along the first and second fold lines 551, 552. Thefirst locking flap 591 can be pivotable about a fold line 591 a. Thefold line 591 a can be connected with the first lateral portion 531. Thefirst locking flap 591 can be formed by a cutout portion 59 lb from thefirst lateral portion 531. The first locking flap 591 can be formedintegrally with the first lateral portion 531 (connected by the foldline 591 a). The first fold line 591 a can be at an angle A relative tothe third fold line 553. Angle A can be acute, normal, or obtuse. Thefirst locking flap 591 can be polygonal in shape. Alternatively, thefirst locking flap 591 can be rectangular in shape. One end of thelocking flap 591 can be aligned parallel with the first fold line 551. Aslot can be disposed between the end of the locking flap 591 and thefirst corner 541. The slot can be rectangular. A width of the slot cancorrespond to a thickness of the locking tab 581. Rotation of thelocking flap 591 about the fold line 591 a can enlarge the slot.

The first flap 591 can be adjacent to the third fold line 553 and formedfrom the cutout portion 591 b. The first flap 591 can be spaced awayfrom the third fold line 553 the same distance that the first lockingtab 581 is spaced away from the third fold line 553. The first lateralportion 531 can be folded along the third fold line 553 and the firstlocking tab 581 can be aligned with the first flap 591. The firstlocking tab 581 can be received within the slot of the cutout portion591 b.

The second flap 592 can include a fold line 592 a and a cutout portion592 b from the first lateral portion 531 and be adjacent to the secondfold line 552 and otherwise have the same structure as the first lockingflap 591. The third locking flap 593 can include a fold line 593 a and acutout portion 593 b from the second lateral portion 532 and be adjacentto the first fold line 551 and otherwise have the same structure as thefirst locking flap 591. The fourth flap 594 can include a fold line 594a and a cutout portion 594 b from the second lateral portion 532 and beadjacent to the second fold line 552 and otherwise have the samestructure as the first locking flap 591.

As shown in FIGS. 30-31, to close the assembly, the first lateralportion 531 can be folded downwardly along the third fold line 553 andthe second lateral portion 532 can be folded downwardly along the fourthfold line 554. The first corner and the third corners 541, 543 can befolded along with the first lateral portion 531. The second corner andthe fourth corners 542, 544 can be folded along with the second lateralportion 532. Folding the second lateral portion 532 can close theopening defined by the fourth edge 564. In certain implementations, anadhesive strip can be attached with the second lateral portion 532 toattach with the lateral edge 564. In another implementation, at leastone tab can be included on the second lateral portion 532 to engage withthe lateral edge 564

The first lateral portion 531 can be folded against an underside of theplatform 523. Likewise, the first corner 541 can be folded against theunderside of the first wing portion 521 and the third corner portion 543can be folded against an underside of the second wing portion 522. Thelocking flaps 591, 593 can be aligned with the corresponding lockingtabs 581, 583. Similarly, the second lateral portion 532 can be foldedagainst an underside of the platform 523. Likewise, the second corner542 can be folded against the underside of the first wing portion 521and the fourth corner portion 544 can be folded against an underside ofthe second wing portion 522. The locking flaps 592, 594 can be alignedwith the corresponding locking tabs 582, 584. The locking tabs caninitially be above the locking flaps (e.g., not within the slots).

As shown in FIGS. 32-33, the first wing portion 521 can be folded alongthe first fold line 551. The locking tabs 581, 582 can be rotatedrelative to the locking flaps 591, 592 with the first wing portion 521.The rotation of the first wing portion can engage the locking tabs 581,582 within the slots formed by the locking flaps 591, 592, respectively.This may include deflection of the locking flaps 591, 592 outwardlyalong the respective fold lines 591 a, 592 a. The second wing portion522 can be folded along the second fold line 552. The locking tabs 583,584 can be rotated relative to the locking flaps 593, 594 with thesecond wing portion 522. The rotation of the wing portion can engage thelocking tabs 583, 584 within the slots formed by the locking flaps 593,594, respectively. This may include deflection of the locking flaps 593,594 outwardly along the respective fold lines 593 a, 594 a. The lockingtabs can snap into the slots and be located beneath the locking flaps.The locking engagement between the locking tabs and locking flaps canlock the positions of the lateral portion 531, 532 that tension thesheet 560. This arrangement can also maintain a relative (upright) anglebetween the wing portions 521, 522 and the central platform 523.

FIG. 34 shows a fifth packaging assembly 600. The packaging assembly 600can have the same structure as the packaging assembly 500. A retentionsheet 660 can be attached with a frame 620. The retention sheet 660 canbe attached along first, second, and third sides 671, 672, 673. A fourthside 674 can be open. An exemplary material for the retention member 660is a compostable and/or biodegradable film. The film can compriseAliphatic polymer. The film can specifically comprise aAliphatic-Aromatic Polyester Blend. The sheet 660 can be heat sealeddirectly to an outer face of a corrugated cardboard member as describedin U.S. application Ser. No. 54/222,410. Alternatively, the retentionsheet 660 can be attached using mechanical means such as adhesive,staples, pressure-sensitive strips, pockets, or the like. The retentionsheet 660 can be generally formed as a square or rectangular member thatgenerally corresponds to the size and shape of the frame.

FIGS. 35-39 illustrate a sixth packaging assembly 700 and jig 800. Thepackaging assembly 700 can have the same structure as the packagingassembly 500 with any differences noted below. The packaging assembly700 can include a frame 720. The frame 720 can include a first wingportion 721. The frame 720 can include a first fold line 751 with acentral platform 723. The first fold line 751 can define the first wingportion 721. The frame 720 can include a first end 724. The frame 720can include a second wing portion 722. The frame 720 can include asecond fold line 752 with the central platform 723. The second fold line752 can define the second wing portion 722. The frame 720 can include asecond end 724. The frame 720 can include a first lateral portion 731.The frame 720 can include a third fold line 753 with the centralplatform 723. The third fold line 753 can define the first lateralportion 731. The frame 720 can include a third end 726. The frame 720can include a second lateral portion 732. The frame 720 can include afourth fold line 754 with the central platform 723. The fourth fold line754 can define the second lateral portion 732. The frame 720 can includea fourth end 727.

The frame 720 can include a first corner 741. The first corner 741 canbe defined by the first and third fold lines 751, 753. The frame 720 caninclude a second corner 742. The second corner 742 can be defined by thefirst and fourth fold lines 751, 754. The frame 720 can include a thirdcorner 743. The third corner 743 can be defined by the second and thirdfold lines 752, 753. The frame 720 can include a fourth corner 744. Thefourth corner 744 can be defined by the second and fourth fold lines752, 754. The frame 720 can include locking tabs (like tabs 581-584).The frame 720 can include locking flaps (like flaps 591-594).

The second lateral portion 732 (and/or the third or fourth cornerportions 743, 744) can include an outer strip or bridge 728. The bridge728 can be defined by a cut 775. The cut 775 can be parallel with thefourth fold line 754. The cut 775 can be located outwardly (e.g. below)the locking flaps of the second lateral portion 732. The bridge 728 canextend from the first wing 721 to the second wing 722. The bridge 728can include a first fold line 791. The first fold line 791 can be offsetfrom the first fold line 751. The bridge 728 can include a second foldline 792. The second fold line 792 can be offset from the second foldline 752. The bridge 728 can additional include one or more fold line793, 794. The fold lines can facilitate the bridge 728 lifting up (awayfrom the remainder of the second lateral portion 732) when the first andsecond wings 721, 722 are folded along the fold line 751, 752.

A retention sheet 760 can be attached with the frame 720. The retentionsheet 760 can extend over the central platform 723. A first end 761 canbe attached with the first wing portion 721 at a first attachmentportion 771. A second end 762 can be attached with the second wingportion 722 at a second attachment portion 772. A third end 763 can beattached with the first lateral portion 731 at a first attachmentportion 773. A fourth end 764 can be attached with the bridge 728 at afourth attachment portion 774. The retention sheet 760 can extend overthe cut 775. The attachment portions 771-774 can fully or partiallyenclose the outer edges of the retention sheet 760. The first attachmentportion 771 can extend continuously from the third end 726 to the fourthend 727. The second attachment portion 772 can extend continuously fromthe third end 726 to the fourth end 727. The third attachment portion773 can extend continuously from the first end 724 to the second end725. The fourth attachment portion 774 can extend continuously from thefirst end 724 to the second end 725. The first attachment portion 771can merge with the third attachment portion 773 and the fourthattachment portion 774 on the respective corners 741, 742. The secondattachment portion 772 can merge with the third attachment portion 773and the fourth attachment portion 774 on the respective corners 743,744.

The central platform 723 can be accessible (underneath the sheet 760)through the cut. The bridge 728 can be raised to lift the sheet 760 awayfrom the central platform and to enlarge an opening of the assembly, asshown in FIG. 36. The assembly can then be securely closed by foldingthe second lateral portion 7 f 32 under the central portion 723. Thelocking tabs can be engaged with the locking flaps as described above inregards to packaging assembly 500.

A jig 800 can be used to aid in loading the frame 700. The jig caninclude a first wall 801 spaced from a second wall 802. The walls 801,802 can be spaced apart to receive the frame 720. The frame 720 can bereceived in a folded configuration. The walls 801, 802 can be spacedapart to receive the platform 723 and to fold the first and second wing721, 722. The folding of the first and second wing 721, 722 can lift thebridge 728. Lifting the bridge 728 can provide access to the platform723 beneath the retention sheet 760. The bridge 7 can be lifted out ofalignment with the platform 723 by the interaction of the wings 721, 722with the fold lines 791, 792.

A brace 804 can be located between the first and second wall 801, 802.The brace can locate the third end 726 of the frame 720 and position thefourth end 727 and bridge 728 on a support 805. The support 805 canangle the fourth end 727 upwardly so as to facilitate loading of anarticle into the frame 720. After the frame 720 is loaded, the secondlateral portion 732 (and bridge 728) can be rotated downwardly, such asbeneath the platform 723. This can close the opening into the platform723. The closing of the opening can secure the loaded articles in placeand/or stretch the retention sheet 760 to inhibit movement of thearticles during storage or shipping.

The various features and advantages of the systems, devices, and methodsof the technology described herein will become more fully apparent fromthe following description of the examples illustrated in the figures.These examples are intended to illustrate the principles of thisdisclosure, and this disclosure should not be limited to merely theillustrated examples. The features of the illustrated examples can bemodified, combined, removed, and/or substituted as will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art upon

Certain Terminology

Terms of orientation used herein, such as “top,” “bottom,” “proximal,”“distal,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” and “end,” are used in the contextof the illustrated example. However, the present disclosure should notbe limited to the illustrated orientation. Indeed, other orientationsare possible and are within the scope of this disclosure. Terms relatingto circular shapes as used herein, such as diameter or radius, should beunderstood not to require perfect circular structures, but rather shouldbe applied to any suitable structure with a cross-sectional region thatcan be measured from side-to-side. Terms relating to shapes generally,such as “circular,” “cylindrical,” “semi-circular,” or“semi-cylindrical” or any related or similar terms, are not required toconform strictly to the mathematical definitions of circles or cylindersor other structures, but can encompass structures that are reasonablyclose approximations.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unlessspecifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within thecontext as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examplesinclude or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps.Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply thatfeatures, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or moreexamples.

Conjunctive language, such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,”unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with thecontext as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may beeither X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generallyintended to imply that certain examples require the presence of at leastone of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used hereinrepresent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs adesired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in someexamples, as the context may dictate, the terms “approximately,”“about,” and “substantially,” may refer to an amount that is within lessthan or equal to 10% of the stated amount. The term “generally” as usedherein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantlyincludes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic.As an example, in certain examples, as the context may dictate, the term“generally parallel” can refer to something that departs from exactlyparallel by less than or equal to 20 degrees. All ranges are inclusiveof endpoints.

Summary

Several illustrative examples of packaging systems have been disclosed.Although this disclosure has been described in terms of certainillustrative examples and uses, other examples and other uses, includingexamples and uses which do not provide all of the features andadvantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of thisdisclosure.

Components, elements, features, acts, or steps can be arranged orperformed differently than described and components, elements, features,acts, or steps can be combined, merged, added, or left out in variousexamples. All possible combinations and subcombinations of elements andcomponents described herein are intended to be included in thisdisclosure. No single feature or group of features is necessary orindispensable.

Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context ofseparate implementations can also be implemented in combination in asingle implementation. Conversely, various features that are describedin the context of a single implementation also can be implemented inmultiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination.Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can insome cases be excised from the combination, and the combination may beclaimed as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/or devicesdisclosed or illustrated in one example in this disclosure can becombined or used with (or instead of) any other portion of any of thesteps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated ina different example or flowchart. The examples described herein are notintended to be discrete and separate from each other. Combinations,variations, and some implementations of the disclosed features arewithin the scope of this disclosure.

While operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in thespecification in a particular order, such operations need not beperformed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or thatall operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Otheroperations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in theexample methods and processes. For example, one or more additionaloperations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or betweenany of the described operations. Additionally, the operations may berearranged or reordered in some implementations. Also, the separation ofvarious components in the implementations described above should not beunderstood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and itshould be understood that the described components and systems cangenerally be integrated together in a single product or packaged intomultiple products. Additionally, some implementations are within thescope of this disclosure.

Further, while illustrative examples have been described, any exampleshaving equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, and/orcombinations are also within the scope of this disclosure. Moreover,although certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are describedherein, not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved inaccordance with any particular example. For example, some exampleswithin the scope of this disclosure achieve one advantage, or a group ofadvantages, as taught herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages taught or suggested herein. Further, some examples mayachieve different advantages than those taught or suggested herein.

Some examples have been described in connection with the accompanyingdrawings. The figures are drawn and/or shown to scale, but such scaleshould not be limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than whatare shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosedinvention. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do notnecessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layoutof the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/orrearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature,aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element,or the like in connection with various examples can be used in all otherexamples set forth herein. Additionally, any methods described hereinmay be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recitedsteps.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand features of the inventions have been described herein. Not all, orany such advantages are necessarily achieved in accordance with anyparticular example of the inventions disclosed herein. No aspects ofthis disclosure are essential or indispensable. In many examples, thedevices, systems, and methods may be configured differently thanillustrated in the figures or description herein. For example, variousfunctionalities provided by the illustrated modules can be combined,rearranged, added, or deleted. In some implementations, additional ordifferent processors or modules may perform some or all of thefunctionalities described with reference to the examples described andillustrated in the figures. Many implementation variations are possible.Any of the features, structures, steps, or processes disclosed in thisspecification can be included in any example.

In summary, various examples of packaging systems and related methodshave been disclosed. This disclosure extends beyond the specificallydisclosed examples to other alternative examples and/or other uses ofthe examples, as well as to certain modifications and equivalentsthereof. Moreover, this disclosure expressly contemplates that variousfeatures and aspects of the disclosed examples can be combined with, orsubstituted for, one another. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosureshould not be limited by the particular disclosed examples describedabove, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims.

1-33. (canceled)
 34. A packaging assembly comprising: a frame formed ofa cardboard sheet, including: a platform; a first wing connected withthe platform at a first fold line; a second wing connected with theplatform at a second fold line; a third wing connected with the platformat a third fold line; a first locking tab on the third wing; wherein theframe is configured to be transitioned from a flat configuration to alocked configuration by rotating the first wing on the first fold lineto an underside of the platform, rotating the second wing on the secondfold line to an underside of the platform, and rotating the third wingto engage the first locking tab with the first wing to retain a rotatedposition of the first wing.
 35. The packaging assembly of claim 34,further comprising a retention member including: a first end attachedwith the first wing; a second end attached with the second wing; and athird end overlapping the third wing as an opening on a side of theplatform; wherein rotating the third wing encloses the open side of theplatform.
 36. The packaging assembly of claim 34, wherein the firstlocking tab of the first wing is formed from a first cutout portion ofthe platform, the first locking tab extending from the first fold line.37. The packaging assembly of claim 34, wherein rotating the third wingengages the first locking tab with both the first wing and the secondwing to retain the rotated positions of the first wing and the secondwing.
 38. The packaging assembly of claim 37, wherein: the frame furthercomprises a fourth wing connected with the platform at a fourth foldline and a second locking tab on the fourth wing; wherein rotating thefourth wing engages the second locking tab with both the first wing andthe second wing, on as opposite side as the first locking tab, to retainthe rotated positions of the first wing and the second wing.
 39. Thepackaging assembly of claim 38, further comprising a retention memberincluding: a first end attached with the first wing; a second endattached with the second wing; a third end attached with the third wing;and a fourth end of the retention member forming an opening beneath theretention member to the platform. wherein the opening is configured tobe closed by folding a fourth wing of the frame connected with theplatform at a fourth fold line.
 40. The packaging assembly of claim 34,further comprising a second locking tab on the third wing, whereinrotating the third wing engages the first locking tab with the firstwing and engages the second locking tab with the second wing to retainthe rotated positions of the first wing and the second wing.
 41. Thepackaging assembly of claim 40, wherein: the frame further comprises afourth wing connected with the platform at a fourth fold line and thirdand fourth locking tabs on the fourth wing; wherein rotating the fourthwing engages the third locking tab with the first wing and engages thefourth locking tab with the second wing, on as opposite side as thefirst and second locking tabs, to retain the rotated positions of thefirst wing and the second wing.
 42. The packaging assembly of claim 40,wherein the first wing includes a first locking slot, the first lockingslot configured to aligned with the first locking tab when the firstwing is folded along the first fold line under the platform.
 43. Thepackaging assembly of claim 42, wherein the first locking slot is formedwithin the first wing at an equal distance from the first fold line asthe first locking tab.
 44. The packaging assembly of claim 42, whereinthe first locking slot is formed by a first locking flap formed by afirst cutout portion from the first wing.
 45. The packaging assembly ofclaim 44, wherein the first locking flap includes a first flap foldline.
 46. The packaging assembly of claim 44, wherein the first lockingtab is configured to be received beneath the first locking flap andwithin the first locking slot by rotation of the third wing.
 47. Thepackaging assembly of claim 46, wherein engagement of the first lockingflap with the first locking tab maintains the third wing in a raisedposition relative to the platform.
 48. The packaging assembly of claim34, wherein the retention member comprises a aliphatic-aromaticpolyester blend.
 49. The packaging assembly of claim 34, furthercomprising a retention member including: a first end attached with thefirst wing; a second end attached with the second wing; and a third endattached with the third wing;
 50. The packaging assembly of claim 49,further comprising a fourth end of the retention member forming anopening, the opening configured to be closed by folding a fourth wing ofthe frame connected with the platform at a fourth fold line.
 51. Thepackaging assembly of claim 49, further comprising a fourth end of theretention member connected with an outer strip of a fourth wing of theframe connected with the platform at a fourth fold line, the outer stripforming an opening, the opening configured to be closed by folding thefourth wing of the frame connected at the fourth fold.
 52. The packagingassembly of claim 51, wherein the outer strip separated from a remainderof the fourth wing by a cut, the cut being parallel with the fourth foldline.